Chinese Zodiac – Year of the Rabbit
The traditional Chinese Zodiac features 12 animals, each believed to bestow their characteristics to those born in their year: The Rat (鼠), Ox (牛), Tiger (虎), Rabbit (兔), Dragon (龍), Snake (蛇), Horse (馬), Sheep (羊), Monkey (猴), Rooster (雞), Dog (狗), Pig (豬). This is a horoscope for the Year of the Rabbit.
Rabbit horoscope for the coming year:
Rabbits are the kind and gentle sign of the horoscope. Despite being sensitive and tending to avoid conflict, you should not underestimate them, as they are alert, smart and intuitive. If you are born a Chinese Rabbit, it is believed that you tend to be artistic and elegant, with excellent taste. Your placid nature and modesty mean that you are well-liked. Your empathy and kindess means that you may tend to lean towards artistic careers, but your ability to be flexible means that you can turn your hand to many professions and be successful.
Rabbits are one of the most favoured animals in the zodiac due to their relationship with Chang’E, The Moon Goddess. The Jade Rabbit famously lives with Chang’E on The Moon and prepares the elixir of life for the immortals. Whilst being kind and well-liked, Rabbits can be prone to being vain or arrogant, so should bear this in mind to ensure they do not get too big for their boots.
According to Chinese astrology, it is believed that you are more likely to offend the gods in your own zodiac year, which means that you are more likely to suffer bad fortune. Rabbits should be more careful during this year, for example; taking care when handling sharp objects to avoid unexpected injuries, and to pay closer attention to your health.
The Year of the Rabbit will largely be a prosperous and positive year for all, where the hard work in previous years will finally bear fruit. Steady and continued work towards your goals will lead to success. Keep alert, like the Rabbit for opportunities and threats and you should pass through this year with excitement and prosperity.
Chinese New Year Customs
Here are a few things that you can do to celebrate Chinese New Year:
- Get your sweeping and cleaning done before New Year. You don’t want to be sweeping out your good luck, when the Year of the Rabbit arrives!
- Some foods such as large mandarin oranges and fish are homophones for lucky-sayings and eating them will ensure that you have luck and wealth for the coming year.
- Wear bright coloured clothing (preferably new, and red) to scare away evil spirits.
Want to learn more about the traditions and folklore surrounding Chinese New Year?